Performance of Si-Ni nanorod as anode for Li-ion batteries

Si-Ni nanorod structures as anode materials for Li ion batteries have been prepared by depositing Si coatings on electrodeposited Ni nanocone arrays using plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition. The obtained samples were characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction. The electrochemical performance was evaluated by a galvanostatic battery testing. It is shown that the first discharge capacity is high as 4125 mAh/g with a high first coulombic efficiency of 92% at C/20 rate. A capacity of 3249 mAh/g at C/5 rate is attained with retention of 95.7% after 30 cycles. (C) 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.